SFB stuns again

Deep into the season with San Francisco Ballet, I am more in love with this company than ever.  The depth of technique, talent and artistry leaves me breathless in my seat (now in the dress circle!)

Sometimes I just want some tutus and sparkling diamonds, and nothing fit that bill better than Raymonda:

Joan Boada and Maria Kotchetkova in Raymonda.  Photo: Erik Tomasson

Raymonda is a classical tour-de force, clad in white and  gold, and dripping with diamonds.  The sumptuous costumes and set by Barry Kay were on loan from England’s Royal Ballet, and they swamped the audience in opulence and majesty.  The choreography,( Nureyev after Petipa) is nakedly classical; technique that looks ridiculously simple to the layman, but hides a core strength and balance almost beyond comprehension.  Try balancing on tip-toe with one leg stuck up near your head and hold it for 15 seconds- and make it look pretty.

On the other end of the spectrum is Raku, Yuri Possokhov’s abstract Japanese themed piece to Shinji Eshima’s gorgeous score.  It’s heartbreaking, awe-inspiring, spine tingling and cry inducing.  The cast is perfection, the dancing thrilling and earthy:

After an evening with these dancers, the world seems a better place… the air lighter and softer…the stars enfolding a darkened city full of beauty, mystery, hope and possibility…   A small piece of joy to take into the hard world.